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Oxytocin and autism: a hypothesis to research. Can perinatal oxitocinergic manipulation facilitate autism?

Ibone Olza Fernández1, Miguel Ángel Marín Gabriel, Francisco López Sánchez

  • 1Psiquiatra infantil, Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, España.

Revista De Psiquiatria Y Salud Mental
|March 1, 2013
PubMed

Insights

This review explores oxytocin's role in mother-infant bonding and social behavior. It discusses potential long-term effects of perinatal oxytocin manipulation, particularly concerning autism etiology.

Area of Science:

  • Neurobiology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Attachment between mother and infant involves neurohormonal and behavioral processes.
  • Oxytocin is crucial for social behaviors, including bonding, sexual behavior, and social recognition.
  • High oxytocin levels post-vaginal birth may indicate a sensitive period for infant attachment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the potential effects of perinatal oxytocin manipulation in human newborns.
  • To discuss the hypothesis linking perinatal oxytocin manipulation to the etiology of autism.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on oxytocin, attachment, and social behavior.
  • Analysis of animal model data on perinatal hormone manipulation.
  • Discussion of human newborn studies and autism research.

Main Results:

  • Perinatal oxytocin manipulation in animal models can alter lifelong social and sexual behaviors.
  • Disregulation of the oxytocinergic system is observed in individuals with autistic disorders.
  • The review explores the potential impact of perinatal oxytocin levels on human infant development.

Conclusions:

  • Oxytocin plays a vital role in establishing early social bonds and recognition.
  • Perinatal oxytocin levels and potential manipulation warrant further investigation for their long-term effects on social development and autism risk.

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